Has the desktop PC had its day? In the first quarter of 2011, worldwide PC shipments fell 1.1% compared with the same period the year before, according to Gartner — the first year-on-year decline in six quarters.

For many IT decision-makers, thin clients are looking a more attractive option, especially at companies where big efficiencies have already been achieved by virtualizing server and storage resources and where desktop virtualization is the next logical step.

As straightforward to use as traditional desktop PCs and offering the same end-user experience, thin clients are cheaper, easier to manage and more reliable. Since most of the computing work is done on a back-end server, they can be patched and managed from within the data center.

With the introduction of its first thin clients to use Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, Fujitsu has now added to the device’s list of attractions. Its FUTRO S700 and FUTRO S900 models are among the most powerful thin clients available, but draw the trickle of power that they require over Ethernet networks. That means just one cable for both connectivity and power, lower utility bills and a more environmentally friendly approach to computing.

Rajat Kakar, VP of workplace systems at Fujitsu Technology Solutions, comments: “Thin clients are an important component of today’s efficient, virtualized workplace.”